Yes, WordPress can send emails by default, using the PHP mail() function. WordPress sends emails for various purposes, such as user registration, password reset requests, comment notifications, and other administrative notices. However, the PHP mail() function has some limitations and can sometimes result in emails being marked as spam or not delivered at all.
To improve email deliverability and reliability, it’s recommended to use an SMTP (Simple Mail Transfer Protocol) service to send emails from your WordPress site. SMTP services handle email sending more effectively, reducing the likelihood of your emails ending up in the spam folder or not being delivered.
There are several SMTP plugins available for WordPress that can help you configure your site to use an SMTP service. Some popular options include:.
- WP Mail SMTP: This plugin allows you to configure your WordPress site to use an SMTP service like Gmail, SendGrid, Mailgun, or any other SMTP provider. After installing and activating the plugin, configure the settings with your chosen SMTP provider’s credentials and API key, if required.
- Post SMTP Mailer/Email Log: Post SMTP is another plugin that enables WordPress to send emails using SMTP. It provides detailed email logs, which can help you troubleshoot email issues. The plugin supports various SMTP providers and API-based email sending services.
- Easy WP SMTP: Easy WP SMTP is a simple plugin that helps you configure your WordPress site to send emails using an SMTP server. The plugin supports various SMTP providers and includes SSL/TLS encryption options for secure email sending.
To configure your WordPress site to send emails using an SMTP service, follow these steps:
- Choose an SMTP service: Sign up for an SMTP service like Gmail, SendGrid, Mailgun, or another provider. Some services offer free tiers with limited email sending, while others require a paid subscription.
- Install and activate an SMTP plugin: Install one of the SMTP plugins mentioned above (or another SMTP plugin of your choice) on your WordPress site.
- Configure the SMTP settings: In the plugin settings, enter the necessary information for your chosen SMTP provider, such as SMTP server address, port number, encryption method, and authentication credentials (username and password or API key). Save the settings.
- Test email sending: Most SMTP plugins include a test email feature that allows you to send a test email to ensure your configuration is working correctly. Use this feature to verify that your WordPress site can send emails using the SMTP service.
By configuring your WordPress site to use an SMTP service, you can improve the reliability and deliverability of your site’s outgoing emails.